British Airways has cancelled flights from London to Tel Aviv and Bahrain until March 3 as tensions in the Middle East intensify.
An overnight BA service from Heathrow to Doha was also forced to turn around mid-air and return to London, according to reports.
The airline confirmed it had axed services to parts of the region after Israel and the US launched strikes on Iran.
A British Airways spokesperson said: “We are closely monitoring the situation and have taken the operational decision to cancel our flights to Tel Aviv and Bahrain up to and including 03 March and have cancelled today’s service to Amman.
“Safety is always our top priority, and we’re contacting our customers to advise them of their travel options.”
Several other major carriers have followed suit, suspending flights “with immediate effect”.
Virgin Atlantic cancelled its VS400 service from Heathrow to Dubai, which had been due to depart at 10.10pm, describing the move as “a precautionary measure”.
A spokesperson said: “The safety and security of our customers and people is always our top priority and we apologise for any inconvenience caused.”
Wizz Air confirmed it was halting all flights to Israel, Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Amman.
Director Rachel Wray said: “Wizz Air confirms that, following the recent escalation of the security situation in Iran, the airline is suspending all flights to and from Israel, Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Amman with immediate effect up until and including 7 March.
“The airline is closely monitoring developments and remains in ongoing contact with local and international authorities, aviation safety agencies, security authorities, and relevant governmental bodies. Operational decisions will continue to be reviewed, and the flight schedule may be adjusted as the situation evolves.”
Qatar Airways also suspended flights to and from Doha after Qatari airspace was closed.
The UK Government said its priority was “the safety of UK nationals” in the region and stressed it was “ready to protect our interests”.
It is understood Britain was not involved in the US and Israeli strikes on Iran. Sir Keir Starmer is due to chair a meeting of the Government’s Cobra emergency committee on Saturday morning.
A Government spokesperson said: “Iran must never be allowed to develop a nuclear weapon and that is why we have continually supported efforts to reach a negotiated solution.
“Our immediate priority is the safety of UK nationals in the region and we will provide them with consular assistance, available 24/7.
“As part of our longstanding commitments to the security of our allies in the Middle East, we have a range of defensive capabilities in the region, which we have recently bolstered. We stand ready to protect our interests.
“We do not want to see further escalation into a wider regional conflict.”
